Tragic Derbyshire teen found dead after frantic search

Michael Broomhead

A teenager was found dead after going missing from his family home and following a desperate search from police and relatives.

William Musgrove, 14, of Malthouse Lane, Ashover, was discovered with a “ligature around his neck” on Monday morning, Chesterfield coroners’ court heard today.

The teenager went missing following a family argument, the inquest heard.

Detective Sergeant Paul Gregory, of Derbyshire police, told the court: “William was returned home by his father on Sunday night and during that evening William got into an argument with his mum.

“William left home and his mum kept trying to make contact with him to no avail.

“She contacted the police to report him missing and a search was conducted by William’s family and officers.

“He was found dead the following morning at Hard Meadow Lane, Ashover. He had a ligature around his neck.”

Det Serg Gregory added: “Enquiries are at an early stage but there is no evidence to suggest there are any suspicious circumstances surrounding William’s death.”

William was a student at Lady Manners School in Bakewell.

A Lady Manners spokesman said: “Will was a very popular and active member of our school community and his death is a shock to us all.

“There are counsellors in school this week available for students to talk to if they wish. Revd Canon Tony Kaunhoven, from All Saints Church, will also be in school to talk to students affected by this tragedy.

“Our thoughts and condolences are with Will’s family and his many friends.”

Coroner James Newman said his office was still awaiting post-mortem results into the teenager’s death and adjourned the inquest to a later date.